African Ambassadors in UAE Celebrate Africa Day with Cultural Showcase in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: The African diplomatic community in the United Arab Emirates hosted a vibrant reception in Abu Dhabi to mark Africa Day, celebrating the continent’s unity, heritage, and growing partnerships with the Arab world.
The event was attended by Dr. Maha Barakat, Assistant Minister for Health and Life Sciences at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside senior government officials, ambassadors from Arab and foreign missions, and prominent business leaders.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Rashid Sesay of Sierra Leone, who also serves as Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps in the UAE, expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the strong cooperation extended by UAE institutions, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Ambassador Sesay emphasized the importance of bolstering Afro-Arab relations, calling for deeper engagement and enhanced collaboration across sectors. “Africa Day reflects the pride we share in our heritage, culture, and unity,” he stated, underscoring the significance of continued solidarity and partnership.
The celebration featured lively African cultural performances and a traditional fashion show, offering guests a glimpse into the rich diversity of the continent’s customs and traditions.
Africa Day, observed annually on May 25, commemorates the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963 in Addis Ababa—an event that laid the foundation for today’s African Union and the collective pursuit of unity and progress across the continent.
